The global value of the waste-to-energy market reached **** billion U.S. dollars in 2021. By 2028, the waste-to-energy market is expected to be valued at ***** billion U.S. dollars, growing at a CAGR of *** percent from 2022 to 2028.

The global waste-to-energy (WtE) market is projected to grow from USD 42.7 billion in 2025 to USD 82.1 billion by 2035, registering a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.8% over the forecast period.

Country-Wise Analysis

• Waste to Energy (WTE) (Waste-to-Energy) Market Scope:

The report on Waste to Energy (WTE) (Waste-to-Energy) Market offers in-depth analysis on market trends, drivers, restraints, opportunities etc. Along with qualitative information, this report include the quantitative analysis of various segments in terms of market share, growth, opportunity analysis, market value, etc. for the forecast years. The global waste to energy (wte) (waste-to-energy) market is segmented on the basis of type, application and geography.

The Global Waste to Energy (WTE) (Waste-to-Energy) market was valued at US$ 23,385.6 Mn in 2018 and is projected to increase significantly at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2019 to 2028. Read More

The Indian Waste-to-Energy Market is Segmented by Technology (Thermal (Incineration, Pyrolysis, and Gasification), Biochemical, and Other Technologies) and Disposal Method (Landfill, Waste Processing, and Recycling). The report offers the market size and forecasts in terms of value in USD million.

The global waste to energy (WTE) market value reached USD 54.42 Billion in 2024. During the forecast period of 2025 and 2034, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.70% to reach a value of around USD 150.40 Billion by 2034.

Waste to Energy Market size was valued at USD 41 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of around 6% during the forecast period 2024-2030.

The global waste to energy market size reached US$ 44.0 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 70.6 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% during 2024-2032. The increasing industrial waste generation, the rapid industrialization, the growing urbanization, the economic expansion of developing countries, the escalating rates of municipal solid waste (MSW) production, and the launch of new technologies are some of the factors propelling waste to energy demand.

The global Waste to Energy Market will reach USD 92.42 billion by 2034 and exhibiting a robust CAGR of 8.2%.

Global waste to energy market worth at USD 37.47 Billion in 2024, is expected to surpass USD 62.21 Billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2034.

Westshore Terminals reported CAD1.72B in Market Capitalization this July of 2025, considering the latest stock price and the number of outstanding shares.Data for Westshore Terminals | WTE - Market Capitalization including historical, tables and charts were last updated by Trading Economics this last July in 2025.

Global Food Waste To Energy Market is poised for a significant growth, with market size projected to surge from USD 62.12 Billion in 2024 to USD 118.3 Billion by 2033, showcasing a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.42% during the forecast period.

The Global Food Waste To Energy market size to cross USD 118.3 Billion by 2033. [https://edison.valuemarketresearch.com//uploads/report_ima

The Netherlands Waste-to-Energy (WtE) market, valued at €2.45 billion in 2025, exhibits a steady growth trajectory, projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.10% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several factors. Stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainable waste management practices are key drivers. The Netherlands' commitment to achieving ambitious renewable energy targets necessitates increased reliance on WtE technologies as a source of renewable energy. Furthermore, advancements in WtE technologies, particularly in thermal technologies like advanced incineration and gasification, offer greater energy recovery efficiency and reduced emissions, thereby contributing to market expansion. Increased public awareness of the environmental benefits of WtE, coupled with rising energy prices, further boosts the sector's appeal. However, the market faces certain restraints, primarily high initial capital investment costs associated with WtE plant construction and operation, and potential public resistance related to siting new facilities. The market is segmented into thermal and non-thermal technologies, with thermal technologies currently dominating due to established infrastructure and proven efficiency. Major players like AEB Bio-energiecentrale BV, Axpo Holdings AG, and Indaver BV are key contributors to the market's growth, driving innovation and competition. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued growth, albeit moderate, reflecting the balance between supportive policy environments and economic considerations. The geographical focus remains predominantly on the Netherlands, reflecting the nation's advanced waste management infrastructure and regulatory framework. While exact market segmentation data is unavailable, we can reasonably infer that thermal technologies will maintain a significant market share, given their current dominance and established track record. Continued technological advancements, coupled with government incentives, are likely to promote the adoption of more efficient and environmentally friendly WtE solutions, thereby shaping future market dynamics. The expanding network of WtE plants will contribute to the nation's energy security and its sustainability goals. Recent developments include: January 2023: RWE received USD 117 million from the European Union's Innovation Fund to help build a waste-to-hydrogen project in an industrial cluster in the Netherlands., May 2022: At Twence's waste-to-energy plant in Hengelo, Netherlands, Aker Carbon Capture began building its Just Catch modular carbon capture plant. As a result of the plant, CO2 emissions were to be reduced and associated with the incineration of non-recyclable waste to generate energy. A standardized Just Catch plant is expected to begin capturing 100,000 metric tons of CO2 per year by the end of 2023; this captured carbon will then be used as liquid fertilizer for greenhouse horticulture operations.. Key drivers for this market are: 4., Supportive Government Policies for Waste-to-Energy Plants4.; Increasing Investments in Waste-to-Energy Industries. Potential restraints include: 4., Supportive Government Policies for Waste-to-Energy Plants4.; Increasing Investments in Waste-to-Energy Industries. Notable trends are: Thermal Technologies Segment to Dominate the Market.

The revenue from waste electricity generation worldwide has been on a moslty upward trend in recent years. In 2022, global waste electricity production generated over *** billion U.S. dollars of revenue across the globe, slightly up from the previous year.

Waste-to-energy industry worldwide

In 2013, global revenues from waste electricity generation reached *** billion U.S. dollars, but by 2016 revenues had fallen to just *** billion U.S. dollars. Revenues began to recover in the following years and totaled **** billion U.S. dollars in 2019. However, disruptions caused by the outbreak of COVID-19 saw 2020 revenues drop once again. It is forecast that the global waste for energy market will reach a value of more than ** billion U.S. dollars by 2027.

Waste-to-energy production

In 2020, the global production of energy from waste reached a high of **** exajoules. Nevertheless, fossil fuels remain the greatest source of electricity generation worldwide.

Waste-to-Energy Market Outlook

The global Waste-to-Energy market size was valued at approximately USD 35.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 67.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by increasing urbanization, rising waste generation, and the urgent need to find sustainable waste management solutions. As the global population continues to grow, the issue of waste management has become a critical concern, propelling the demand for efficient Waste-to-Energy technologies.

The growth of the Waste-to-Energy market can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the increasing volume of waste generated globally is a significant driver. Municipal solid waste, industrial waste, and agricultural waste are escalating at alarming rates due to population growth, industrialization, and urbanization. This surge in waste generation necessitates the adoption of efficient waste management solutions, thereby driving the Waste-to-Energy market. Secondly, government policies and regulations supporting renewable energy and waste management are playing a pivotal role in market growth. Policies like subsidies, tax incentives, and stringent waste disposal regulations are encouraging investments in Waste-to-Energy technologies.

Additionally, advancements in Waste-to-Energy technologies are contributing significantly to market growth. Innovations in thermal, biological, and physical waste conversion technologies are enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs, making Waste-to-Energy projects more economically viable. Furthermore, the increasing awareness of environmental sustainability is compelling industries and municipalities to adopt Waste-to-Energy solutions to reduce their carbon footprint and achieve sustainability goals. Public and private sector investments in sustainable waste management solutions are further propelling market growth.

On the regional front, Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate the Waste-to-Energy market during the forecast period, owing to rapid urbanization and industrialization in countries like China and India. North America and Europe are also significant markets due to stringent environmental regulations and high waste generation rates. In these regions, Waste-to-Energy technologies are seen as viable solutions to meet renewable energy targets and reduce landfill usage. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, with increasing government initiatives and investments in waste management infrastructure driving growth in these regions.

Technology Analysis

Thermal technology is one of the primary segments within the Waste-to-Energy market. This technology involves the combustion of waste materials to generate energy. Thermal treatment methods include incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification. Incineration is the most widely used method due to its efficiency in reducing waste volume and generating energy. Despite concerns about emissions, advancements in flue gas treatment technologies have significantly mitigated environmental impacts, making thermal technologies more acceptable. The growing focus on reducing landfill waste and generating renewable energy is expected to drive the demand for thermal Waste-to-Energy technologies.

Biological technologies, including anaerobic digestion and composting, are gaining traction in the Waste-to-Energy market. These technologies leverage biological processes to convert organic waste into biogas, which can be used for energy generation. Anaerobic digestion is particularly effective in treating municipal solid waste and agricultural waste, converting them into valuable biogas and digestate. The increasing emphasis on organic waste recycling and the production of renewable natural gas (RNG) is fueling the growth of biological Waste-to-Energy technologies. Furthermore, advancements in microbial consortia and process optimization are enhancing the efficiency and yield of biological waste treatment processes.

Physical technologies in the Waste-to-Energy market include mechanical-biological treatment (MBT) and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) production. MBT combines mechanical and biological processes to recover valuable materials and energy from mixed waste. This technology is increasingly adopted in regions with stringent recycling targets and landfill diversion goals. RDF production involves the processing of waste materials to produce a high-calorific-value fuel suitable for combustion in industrial boilers and cement kilns. The versatility and scalability of physical waste treatment te

The waste-to-energy (WtE) market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing waste generation, stringent environmental regulations, and the need for sustainable energy solutions. The global WtE market, currently valued at approximately $25 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated market size of $45 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising global population and urbanization are leading to a significant increase in municipal solid waste, creating a pressing need for efficient waste management solutions. Secondly, governments worldwide are implementing stricter regulations to reduce landfill reliance and promote renewable energy sources, making WtE a crucial part of sustainable waste management strategies. Thirdly, advancements in WtE technologies, such as advanced incineration and gasification, are improving efficiency, reducing emissions, and enhancing the economic viability of WtE projects. The increasing demand for renewable energy, coupled with the potential for energy recovery from waste, further bolsters market growth. The WtE market is segmented by technology (incineration, gasification, and others) and application (industrial, commercial, and residential electricity generation). Incineration currently holds the largest market share due to its maturity and widespread adoption, while gasification is gaining traction due to its potential for higher energy recovery and reduced emissions. Geographically, North America and Europe are currently the leading markets, driven by established infrastructure and supportive policies. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driven by rapid urbanization and increasing government initiatives to address waste management challenges. Key players in the WtE market include Covanta Holding Corporation, Metso Outotec, and others, constantly innovating to offer improved and more sustainable solutions. The market is expected to face challenges from fluctuating energy prices and the need for substantial upfront investment in WtE infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the long-term growth outlook for the WtE market remains exceptionally positive due to the escalating global waste problem and the growing need for environmentally friendly energy solutions.

Saudi Arabia waste to energy market size reached USD 417.6 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 664.2 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.75% during 2025-2033​. The increasing advances in waste to energy technologies, such as improved incineration processes, gasification, and anaerobic digestion, which have increased the efficiency of energy conversion, are driving the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the country level for ​2025-2033​. Our report has categorized the market based on technology and waste type.

The global waste-to-energy (WtE) market, valued at $44.24 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing urbanization, stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing landfill waste, and the escalating need for renewable energy sources. The 7.1% CAGR indicates a significant expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). Key growth drivers include government initiatives promoting sustainable waste management, rising energy prices making WtE economically viable, and technological advancements improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact of WtE plants. The thermal technologies segment, encompassing incineration and gasification, currently dominates the market due to its established infrastructure and relatively lower initial investment costs. However, biochemical reactions, including anaerobic digestion, are gaining traction due to their potential for producing biogas and other valuable byproducts. The Waste Disposal application segment holds the largest market share, reflecting the urgent need for effective waste management solutions. However, the Energy segment is poised for significant growth driven by increasing demand for renewable energy sources and government support for WtE projects. Regional market leadership is expected to remain concentrated in North America and Europe initially, due to established infrastructure and stringent environmental policies, but Asia-Pacific is likely to witness the highest growth rate driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization in countries like China and India. Competition in the WtE market is intense, with both established multinational corporations like Covanta, Suez, and Veolia, and regional players vying for market share. Successful players are focusing on technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and expansion into emerging markets. While challenges remain, including public perception concerns surrounding emissions and siting of WtE plants, continuous technological improvements and robust regulatory frameworks are mitigating these risks. The overall market outlook remains positive, with the WtE sector playing a crucial role in the global transition towards a circular economy and sustainable waste management practices. The market is expected to exceed $80 billion by 2033, indicating substantial investment opportunities and a growing need for innovative solutions within this sector.

The global energy recovery technologies market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing waste generation, stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing landfill reliance, and the escalating demand for renewable energy sources. The market's expansion is significantly influenced by advancements in waste-to-energy technologies, offering more efficient and sustainable solutions. Applications span various sectors, with chemical industries, agriculture, and the energy sector themselves being major contributors. Municipal solid waste and agricultural waste constitute the dominant segments, providing a substantial feedstock for energy recovery processes. While the precise market size in 2025 is unavailable, a reasonable estimate based on typical CAGR ranges for similar sectors (let's assume a conservative 7% CAGR from a 2019 baseline) and considering the current market dynamics, would place the 2025 market value in the range of $15-20 billion (USD). This substantial market is further segmented geographically, with North America and Europe currently holding significant shares. However, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for rapid growth owing to increasing urbanization and industrialization, coupled with government initiatives promoting sustainable waste management. This projected growth trajectory indicates lucrative investment opportunities and a significant contribution toward a circular economy model. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established multinational corporations like Covanta, Veolia, and Suez, and regional players specializing in specific technologies. Innovation in waste processing technologies, including advanced incineration systems with higher energy efficiency and gasification techniques for producing biofuels, is a key driver for market expansion. Challenges remain, including the high capital investment required for setting up waste-to-energy plants, regulatory hurdles associated with environmental permits, and public perception regarding the potential environmental impacts of certain technologies. However, continuous technological advancements, along with increasing regulatory pressures and public awareness of sustainability, are expected to mitigate these constraints and propel market growth significantly over the forecast period (2025-2033), pushing the market valuation considerably higher by 2033. The diverse applications across industrial sectors, coupled with the ongoing global transition to renewable energy sources, present a strong long-term outlook for the energy recovery technologies market.

The global municipal solid waste incineration market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing urbanization, stringent waste management regulations, and the need for energy recovery from waste. The market, estimated at $15 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of approximately $28 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising volume of municipal solid waste generated globally necessitates efficient and environmentally sound disposal methods, making incineration with energy recovery a compelling option. Secondly, government initiatives promoting renewable energy sources and reducing landfill dependency are creating favorable market conditions. Thirdly, advancements in incineration technologies, leading to improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact, are further driving market expansion. The increasing adoption of waste-to-energy (WtE) projects, coupled with rising awareness about the environmental and economic benefits of incineration, contribute significantly to market growth. Despite the promising growth outlook, the market faces certain challenges. High capital investment costs associated with building and maintaining incineration plants can act as a deterrent, particularly in developing economies. Public perception regarding potential environmental risks, such as air pollution and ash disposal, remains a concern and requires proactive engagement to address public apprehension through transparent communication and improved environmental safeguards. Furthermore, fluctuating energy prices and the availability of alternative waste management solutions can influence market dynamics. However, the long-term prospects remain positive, driven by the need for sustainable waste management and the inherent advantages of energy recovery from municipal solid waste incineration. Key players such as Suez Environment S.A., Martin GmbH, Covanta Energy Corporation, Wheelabrator Technologies Inc., and Brickner & Bratton Inc. are actively shaping market trends through technological innovations and strategic partnerships.

Advanced Thermal Conversion Waste-to-Energy Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global advanced thermal conversion waste-to-energy market size reached USD 16.2 billion in 2024, with a robust year-on-year growth momentum. The market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2025 to 2033, projecting the market value to reach approximately USD 34.1 billion by 2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing need for sustainable waste management solutions, heightened environmental regulations, and the urgent global demand for alternative energy sources that reduce landfill dependency and greenhouse gas emissions.

The principal growth factor for the advanced thermal conversion waste-to-energy market is the surging volume of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated worldwide, coupled with the limitations of conventional landfill methods. Urbanization and industrialization in both developed and developing regions have led to an exponential rise in waste generation, necessitating innovative and efficient disposal solutions. Advanced thermal conversion technologies such as gasification, pyrolysis, and plasma arc gasification offer significant advantages over traditional incineration, including higher energy recovery rates, lower emission profiles, and the ability to process a diverse range of feedstocks. These benefits are increasingly recognized by governments, municipalities, and private sector stakeholders seeking to align with circular economy principles and achieve sustainability targets.

Another major driver is the tightening of environmental regulations and policies aimed at reducing landfill usage and carbon emissions. Governments across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific are implementing stringent waste management directives and incentivizing the adoption of waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies. These regulatory measures, combined with financial incentives and public-private partnerships, are accelerating the deployment of advanced thermal conversion facilities. Additionally, the growing adoption of renewable energy portfolios by utilities and industries is fueling demand for electricity and heat generated from waste, further propelling market growth.

Technological advancements and ongoing R&D investments in advanced thermal conversion processes are also pivotal in shaping the market landscape. Innovations in gasification, pyrolysis, and plasma arc gasification have significantly improved process efficiency, scalability, and feedstock flexibility. Enhanced process controls, automation, and emissions abatement systems are making these technologies more commercially viable and environmentally compliant. As a result, the market is witnessing increased adoption across a broad spectrum of end-users, from municipalities and industrial operators to commercial enterprises seeking sustainable waste disposal and energy solutions.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is emerging as the most dynamic market for advanced thermal conversion waste-to-energy technologies, driven by rapid urbanization, large-scale infrastructure investments, and government-led sustainability initiatives. North America and Europe continue to demonstrate strong growth, supported by mature waste management frameworks, robust regulatory environments, and a high level of technological adoption. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually embracing advanced WTE solutions, propelled by rising environmental awareness and the need for decentralized energy generation. Each region presents unique market dynamics, investment opportunities, and challenges, shaping the global competitive landscape.

Technology Analysis

The technology segment of the advanced thermal conversion waste-to-energy market is segmented into gasification, pyrolysis, plasma arc gasification, and others. Gasification remains the most widely adopted technology, accounting for a significant share of the market due to its ability to process a wide variety of feedstocks and produce syngas for electricity and heat generation. Gasification processes operate at high temperatures with controlled oxygen